I have a '99 Ford Ranger 3.0L that won't start reliably(3 times in 2 weeks).When I turn the ignition to "on",the theft light flashes rapidly,and will eventually give me a 1:6 code(faulty link between PATS module and EECV).I tried a regular door key in the ignition,and a 1:3 code flashed(key code not received)which tells me the transceiver is working properly.When it will start,the theft light works properly and proves out.The truck will start sometimes and runs fine,which makes me discount coil packs or the fuel pump as culprits.My mechanic buddy hooked his scanner to the truck,and could not communicate with the PCM.He could communicate with PATS,however.When we initially hooked up the scanner,we got a communication bus fault code.What links the PATS module to the PCM,and how do I fix it? I am ready to set fire to the glorious peice of ****,so any help is much appreciated...Thanks

I replaced the relay the first time it wouldn't start.It made no difference.I checked all fuses and my mechanic buddy checked out the fuse panel and PDB with a multi meter.All checked out ok.Is there a way to test the transceiver so I can eliminate it or condemn it as a problem? I unhooked my battery,unhooked the harness from the PCM,rehooked up the battery and tried the key again.Same thing,1:6 code.It's as if the PCM isn't there at all.Can I test the PCM away from the truck(isolated)? Does the transceiver communicate directly with the PCM,or does the signal go to another relay or PATS module? Thanks for your help,I most certainly appreciate it...I replaced the relay the first time it wouldn't start.It made no difference.I checked all fuses and my mechanic buddy checked out the fuse panel and PDB with a multi meter.All checked out ok.Is there a way to test the transceiver so I can eliminate it or condemn it as a problem? I unhooked my battery,unhooked the harness from the PCM,rehooked up the battery and tried the key again.Same thing,1:6 code.It's as if the PCM isn't there at all.Can I test the PCM away from the truck(isolated)? Does the transceiver communicate directly with the PCM,or does the signal go to another relay or PATS module? Thanks for your help,I most certainly appreciate it...

When the anti-theft light is flashing rapidly then either it is not seeing the key,or the transciever module is not communicating with the PCM. It could be the transciever or it could be the PCM is not powering up for some reason. I would first try replacing the PCM relay in the underhood fuse panel.

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Related Questions:

Is the red light on the top center of the dash pad flashing fast when trying to start ? The engine doesn't turn over ?
Anti-theft system problem !
PATS uses a visual theft indicator. This indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. PATS also "blips" the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual theft deterrent.
PATS differs from the perimeter anti-theft system in that PATS enables and disables the engine from starting. If equipped, the perimeter anti-theft system protects the perimeter of the vehicle (doors, hood and trunk) and sounds an alarm.
The PATS is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. Remote start systems must be removed before investigation of PATS-related No Start issues.

If the security system is at fault, the security light should be flashing or staying on.
Do the warning lights come on the dash when you turn the key on ? Can you jumper the starter relay and make it crank ?

might wana have that theft turned off i had mine turned off on my 99 due to too manny problems i was like wtf so i had it turned off so now u dont need a key with a (chip) if u turn it off saves alot of time! down the road its stupid

The late-90's GM Passlock system (e.g. 1997 Malibu, Regal, Impala, etc.) has a part around the ignition tumbler that goes bad and no longer reliably detects the valid key. In that situation, the "Theft System" light will slowly flash and the carburetor is cut off so the engine won't start. The time-out on the system is 10 minutes - you don't have to do anything, you don't have to disconnect the battery, the key can be out of the ignition -- it's just a time delay. After 10 minutes, the light goes out and you can try again (but if the key is again not detected, the light will start flashing again and you have to wait another 10 minutes)
Someone else, who had this problem, told me to remove all other keys from my keyring. The weight of the other keys pulls on the ignition key causing the key to be unreadable. It has been 7 weeks since I have been doing this and have not had a problem

The theft indicator on the instrument cluster will operate as follows:• When the ignition is OFF, the theft indicator will flash briefly every two seconds to indicate the SecuriLock system is protecting your vehicle.• When the ignition is turned to ON or START, the theft indicator will light for three seconds and then go out. If the theft indicator stays on for an extended period of time or flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealership or a qualified technician.

try turning the key to the acc position and leave it in that position till the light goes off. if it goes off then turn key off and then try starting if that dont work call a ford dealership and ask a mechanic